Tanya Smith
Fundraising for North East Lincolnshire Mind
Fundraising for Hull & East Yorkshire Mind
Story
I've been decorating the postbox on Waltham's Bradley Road since 2020, in the midst of COVID when people were experiencing isolation and depression.
Alongside my Uncle Baza, I created an Easter display during lockdown. My Uncle does the frames and I do the artwork detail. The reaction has been amazing and I've done a few more seasonal themed displays ever since.
I've been called The Postbox Lady by some locals!
Mental health and suicide
Sometimes, people have told me they'd like to donate to a charity of some sort to show their appreciation for the postbox artwork. So it seems a good idea to raise money for the wonderful North East Lincolnshire Mind charity.
I lost my son Ross to suicide in 2017, just before he turned 30. We were devastated and the pain never goes away. So this is a cause so close to my family's hearts.
Mind North East Lincs supports people across the county through open groups, one to one counselling and community activities inside and outside the hub on Grimsby's Kent Street.
Suicide and mental health is a huge issue across Grimsby and the surrounding areas.
I noticed that my decorative postbox creations often put a smile on people's faces and their reactions make it all worthwhile. I started in the dark times of COVID and have kept creating while the Cost of Living crisis bites.
From North East Lincolnshire Mind:
We rely on local people to support us to raise money to carry out our work. Were really grateful for all the support we receive from the local community. Your support will mean we can help more people in North East Lincolnshire.